One Student At A Time

Margaret Wambui and Michael Maingi, students of Muhu Secondary School, expressed their gratitude for the Foxfire Student Wellbeing and Life Skills Program. Margaret mentioned that the training helped to improve her self-esteem, courage, and communication skills, while Michael appreciated the opportunity to develop a positive mindset and resist negative comments. Many students have noted that the program enabled them to communicate with their teachers and encouraged them to be open about their issues. The students have responded positively to the facilitator’s warm approach and willingness to address their concerns

Michael shared his experience with the topic of sexuality, saying, “I remember the topic of sexuality being handled in a way that made me open up about my issues with masturbation. I was pleased with the facilitator’s enthusiastic response and the support from my classmates.” Through the program, Michael recognised that his teachers were more experienced and had his best interests at heart. This attitude shift allowed him to view his teachers as friends and mentors. He reflected on how he was once influenced by his peers.

“Since our home is far from school, my parents would give me bus fare. But with my friends, we could save money to buy snacks. I felt like my life was controlled by my peers rather than myself. Until our Business Studies teacher addressed the issues of peer belonging and time management through the program, I didn’t realize how much I was being influenced and wasting my time walking home after spending my bus fare.  Now, I no longer act to please others, and I have significantly improved academically.” He said

 Michael also found the goal-setting session to be eye-opening. He understood the importance of setting goals and developing strategies to achieve them. He is now focused on improving in each subject and has established a career path to pursue.

Margaret shared how the topic of accountability profoundly impacted her. “This topic was crucial for me,” she said. “I realised the importance of following my mother’s advice and instructions. This session helped me develop a sense of duty and obedience to authority figures. I created a schedule to manage my time effectively and distanced myself from a negative peer group that was influencing me to engage in risky behaviours.”

Margaret’s character underwent a remarkable transformation during the program. She became more empathetic and kinder, and her academic performance improved significantly, from a D+ to a C+ in just one term. Her teachers recognised her growth and appointed her as class prefect. Margaret acknowledged the program’s power to positively impact the lives of young Kenyans.